Advancing the Collaboration Between Imaging and Radiation Oncology.

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Recent decades have seen significant advancements in cancer treatment through the integration of imaging technologies and radiation therapy (RT).
• A critical need exists to review past achievements and forecast future developments in the synergy between imaging and RT.
• This paper aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration for the next decade.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current achievements and preview future directions for the synergy between imaging and radiation therapy.
• To delineate ten prospective research and development pathways.
• To present strategies for infrastructure and team development to facilitate clinical translation.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive review of current literature and technological trends in medical imaging and RT.
• Identification and articulation of ten key prospective directions for innovation and application.
• Analysis of requirements for infrastructure and interdisciplinary team development.

Main Results:

• Ten prospective directions are delineated, covering technological innovations and the application of imaging data in RT planning, execution, and preclinical research.
• Major directions for infrastructure and team development are presented to facilitate interdisciplinary synergy.
• The integration aims to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and safety in RT.

Conclusions:

• Seamless integration of imaging technologies into RT promises to meet current demands and unlock novel functionalities.
• This synergy will enhance the standard of care for cancer patients globally.
• Continued collaboration is essential for advancing cancer treatment through imaging-RT integration.